Group seeks increase in participation by graduates from the last decade

Photo by Kris Qua

A renewed focus on Rensselaer’s most recent graduates (those who have been alumni for 10 years or less) has led to the formation of a new leadership group dedicated to enhancing the relationship between the Institute and this important group of graduates.

The Young Alumni Council was formed this fall, with a mission that is both social and philanthropic. Their objectives include: increasing young alumni attendance at and participation in Institute events, regional programs, and class Reunion; fostering networking among young alumni; and increasing participation in young alumni annual giving.

Several subcommittees will address some key areas of focus. The Young Alumni Events Committee will explore involvement opportunities both on and off campus. The Reunion Committee will work with the alumni office to engage more 5th- and 10th-year Reunion alumni with the Reunion program. The Young Patroon Committee will build young alumni philanthropy by inspiring graduates to become leaders in giving to Rensselaer.

“Our first program will be a series of seminars across the country that address topics of interest to young alumni, such as investing, insurance, and retirement planning,” according to Ray Lutzky ’02, one of the first volunteer members of the council. “We would love to hear from recent grads who have ideas for seminar topics they would find most helpful.”

“Our aim is to recruit a diverse membership for the Young Alumni Council, which will mirror the diverse makeup of Rensselaer’s alumni body,” says Jeff Schanz, director of alumni relations and annual giving. “Diversity will ensure that our programs meet the needs of all our young graduates. We hope to attract members from the full range of class years, and from different schools and disciplines as well as from different backgrounds.”

Are you an alumnus from the last decade?

The Young Alumni Council is seeking members to join the group or any of its subcommittees. Contact Lindsay Shea at sheal@rpi.edu or (518) 276-8719 or Laura Sadowski ’98 at sadowl@rpi.edu or (518) 276-8242.

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